NCLEX-PN® ExaminationPharmacological TherapiesMedium
An LPN is preparing to administer an oral opioid analgesic to a client reporting moderate pain. The client's respiratory rate is 10 breaths/min. What is the most appropriate action for the LPN to take?
- AHold the medication and notify the registered nurse (RN) or healthcare provider.
- BAdminister half of the prescribed dose and reassess the client in 30 minutes.
- CEncourage the client to take deep breaths and then administer the medication.
- DAdminister the medication as prescribed and monitor the client closely.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Hold the medication and notify the registered nurse (RN) or healthcare provider.
Opioid analgesics can cause respiratory depression. A respiratory rate of 10 breaths/min is at the lower end of the acceptable range and indicates potential respiratory depression, especially before administering another dose of an opioid. The LPN should prioritize client safety by withholding the medication and escalating the concern to the RN or healthcare provider.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Administering a partial dose is outside the LPN's scope of practice without an order and still carries a risk of further respiratory depression.
- C. Encouraging deep breaths might temporarily increase the rate but does not address the underlying risk or the need for a comprehensive assessment by an RN or provider.
- D. Administering the medication could further depress respirations and compromise client safety.
Opioid-Induced Respiratory Depression
A serious adverse effect of opioid analgesics characterized by decreased respiratory rate, depth, and effort, potentially leading to hypoxemia.
- Respiratory rate <12 breaths/min is concerning.
- Always assess before administering opioids.
- Hold dose and notify provider if respiratory depression suspected.
Memory trick: Opioids: Watch the Breath, or Face the Death!